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  • Perhaps the frame was modified by a framebuilder

    Possibly, but I honestly drum brakes are still a thing in a lot of places that value their almost no-maintenance, it doesn't seem too far-fetched for someone to like them enough to build a frame around them.

  • Indeed, back in the mid 80's drums were big on the UK MTB scene, here's an excellent article by the late Dave Wrath-Sharman that's worth a read...
    http://www.63xc.com/dws/hubbrake.htm

    I quote:
    Once upon a time, long ago, Sturmey realised that there were things called mountainbikes .... the sales director and a sidekick put hub brakes on a mountainbike and went off into the wilds. Nearly killed themselves. The brakes weren't good enough. I got roped in as a design consultant, and I redesigned the innards. I still have some, and they really work, but Sturmey didn't go ahead. They told me they were making enough money with the hubs they already had.

    Dave's Highpath bikes were pure class - I think this is my favourite

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